The gasoline-powered, manual-transmission model of Kia's newest car is basically a stripped-down version of the more upscale Rio EX. Airbags are some of the most expensive individual components inside a car, so they were the first to go. Large alloy wheels are also quite pricey compared to hubcapped 14-inch steel rims, so CAC opted for the latter. Chrome pipings and accents had to be ditched as well to save on costs. Even the headlight assemblies, sadly, had to lose their LED design cues. The 60:40 split-folding rear seats? Not in this variant. Power windows? Only at the front doors, and don't even bother about power door locks as the Rio LX doesn't come with these. The antilock brake system? Forget about it. Fleet buyers will also lose about 200cc worth of displacement together with close to 20 horses of power and almost 18Nm of torque with the LX as it only houses a 1.2-liter Kappa engine instead of the 1.4-liter lump in the higher-end EX.
So, what do fleet buyers have left? Well, for P598,000 they will get a smooth-riding, solid-feeling, cleanly-designed, stylish and modern-looking Euro-inspired sedan. It is a well-built everyday car that's spacious enough to accommodate five in relative comfort. It rides with a composure befitting a larger compact. It has seats so soft and supportive that passengers will feel like they were sitting in body-hugging office chairs. The large and deep trunk space should be able to house an LPG tank along with cargo. Also standard with the LX is a two-tone dashboard finish that, thankfully, CAC didn't omit. At least when fleet drivers step inside, they will not feel like they got the raw end of the stick.
2012 Kia Rio LX review - Drives | TopGear.com.ph
On the road, the fleet driver will experience composed lightness in the Rio LX's controls. The clutch, brake and gas pedals are all soft to step on, but this time they are more controlled and precise to operate. No more clutch lag as with the old Rio. The electric-motor-driven power steering is likewise a breeze to fling around, making this Rio effortless to drive. And granted you don't intend to accelerate past 4,000 revs, the small displacement Kappa engine--the same found on the recently released Picanto 1.2-liter hatchback--should be enough for the daily grind.
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